Kickstart Scheme: Developing talented young people
The government-funded Kickstart Scheme has given thousands of young people and businesses a much-needed lifeline during the pandemic. Businesses have benefited from having the financial support to recruit, and young people have gained valuable experience and workplace skills.
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September 30, 2021
Maite Gonzalez
We have always supported the idea of bringing in young talent. Rich White, founder and Director of Photography, has engaged with schools and universities over the last five years to deliver talks and workshops to students about freelancing, the creative sector and what employers expect of young people entering the industry. Rich reflects that “we have always been committed to attract and develop new talent. The Kickstart Scheme has enabled us to continue to do this, even during these challenging times.”
Since March 2021, we have offered six work placements. Now that everyone has settled into their roles, let’s check in and find out their experiences.
Laura, our first ‘Kickstarter’, explained how she’s been enjoying her role as Production Assistant:
I thought I would be unemployed for a long time, but this was a reachable opportunity for me with not a lot of experience. The work culture at Powerhouse is nice and relaxed – it doesn’t feel like there is a hierarchy. There is a good balance between a relaxed and professional work environment, so it’s a great way to transition between education and work.
Laura Holsey
Mandy joined as Studio Assistant and highlighted that she has “enjoyed being a part of the friendly team culture” and how “the placement has enabled me to broaden my ideas about the industry.”
All the Kickstarters joined after graduating from university (either this year or last year). Connor, who graduated with a degree in investment management, told us that he didn’t really want to get a job in the city, but knew that the skills learned from his degree would be useful in a finance or accounting role:
I had no practical experience in accounting and finance, but through my placement I now have a solid career plan and intend to continue my accounting qualifications in my finance role at Powerhouse.
Connor Alma
Tom, who joined as Motion Graphics Assistant, mentioned how hard it is to find entry-level opportunities: “Powerhouse has been a great career-starter, especially with it being so difficult to find entry-level positions in the creative sector.”
Sofia, who graduated with a degree in sociology, and Simran, who studied journalism, have joined our commercial team in marketing and client services. They both stress that the work experience gained is demonstrating the value of transferable skills. Sofia points out that “students and graduates should be open to career ideas that are not directly related to their degree subject.”
